In a decision that has left many residents dissatisfied, the Colton City Council voted to extend its contract with CR&R, Inc. for municipal solid waste collection services for another 10 years without undergoing a Request for Proposal (RFQ) process.
The move, which bypasses the city's own
municipal code, has sparked criticism from both council members and the public.
During the council meeting, Public Works Director Brian Dickenson presented the proposed Second Amendment to the existing agreement with CR&R. The amendment includes several changes such as replacing 64-gallon residential containers with 96gallon ones, increasing the number of bulky item pickups, and implementing new per-
formance review standards. "The amendment offers numerous benefits to our community, including a residential rate freeze until 2026 and additional community cleanup events," said Dickenson.
However, the decision to forgo the RFQ process was met with strong opposition. Councilmember Dr. G voiced his concerns, stating, "I want to state my reasons for not
By Dr.G (Dr. Luis S González), Community Writer
During the City Council meeting on July 16, Council Member Dr. Luis S. González presented Tony Trieu and Helen Huynh, owners of Pro Nails, with a “Business Focus” Recognition Award. This long-established business has been a cornerstone of the
Colton community since opening in 2004. Tony Trieu, originally from Vietnam, immigrated to the United States in 1992 at the age of 20. After living in San Bernardino for four years and commuting to El Monte for work, Tony moved to Colton in 1996 with aspirations of one day owning his own business. In 2004, Tony returned to Vietnam to marry his childhood sweetheart, Helen Huynh, and together
they made Colton their home. Later that year, they found an ideal business location in the heart of downtown Colton at 282 N La Cadena, within a small retail strip mall next to Stater Bros.
Since its opening, Pro Nails has perfected expert nail services and expanded its customer base to include hundreds of loyal patrons. "Many customers have been with
Burn Victim “John Doe” Found in San Bernardino Homicide Case
PHOTO MANNY SANDOVAL
CR&R is one of Southern California’s waste and recycling companies, which is currently serving the City of Colton.
Pro Nails, cont. next pg.
PHOTO DR. G
(Left to right) Council Member Dr. G; Helen Huynh and Tony Trieu, owners of Pro Nails; and Tammy Matteson, property owner.
PHOTO MANNY SANDOVAL (Left to right) Councilmember Kelly Chastain, Mayor Frank Navarro, and Councilmember Dr. G, discussing the item on July 16, 2024.
RFQ
supporting this agreement. It is a business decision, and we should shop around. This contract is worth multi-millions of dollars and multi-years, and it affects every resident and business in our city. Even our own Colton municipal code encourages competitive bidding."
Dr. G further elaborated, "Going out to bid is simply a good, solid decision to make. There are no negative effects on CR&R. If they are the best bid, then they get the contract, and everyone can feel good that the entire process was done properly, as stated by our own municipal code."
Councilmember Kelly Chastain, however, defended the decision. "I understand both sides. Some places may require an RFQ, but I think we got a good contract out of this. We ended up in a good position—there won't be any rate increases until 2026, new trash cans for households, and a host fee that we hadn't had solidified for many years that can produce revenue."
Despite the council's approval, Mayor Frank Navarro voted against the contract extension. "This contract will be in place for about 30 years total after this 10 year contract. There have been a few changes added that may be beneficial to the city, but when someone says, 'We can't get anything better?' How do you know what other companies are willing to give?" he questioned. "What are we doing? Are we really doing the work of the people?"
Councilmember David Torro echoed support for the contract, saying, "I've done a lot of homework
us since we first opened," Tony shared. The shop's reputation for quality nail care and excellent customer relations has made it a popular destination for professional nail services. The business accommodates working clients with extended hours until 7:00 PM.
Pro Nails offers a variety of services, including manicures, pedicures, nail art, acrylic nails, and eyebrow and whole-face waxing. The shop, adorned with colorfully displayed nail care supplies, welcomes walk-in clients, ensuring quick
and looked at a lot of contracts. We were low, and the benefits we are receiving are beneficial. We had the opportunity to tell CR&R what we wanted, and they came back and said they could do everything. I don't find RFQ processes to be successful in my personal life experiences, and this is a benefit to the residents." He also stated that with his term ending in November, this contract is one thing he could be proud of achieving for Colton residents.
Despite the council's approval, residents voiced their dissatisfaction during the public comment period. June Hughes recounted her recent issues with CR&R's service. "I had a situation where CR&R did not quite dump all of the greens out of my barrel and forgot to pick up my paper recycling. I called multiple times, and nothing was done. They lack customer service, and this needs to go out for bid."
Another resident, John Stealineads, expressed confusion and frustration. "I'm a little taken back. Why have we not put this out to bid? Just do it. Ask for a bid and get an idea of what we can ask for. CR&R and the city council have put a lot of time into this. Put it out for bid to get a ballpark figure to see what other companies can offer us."
The council's decision to bypass the RFQ process has highlighted a divide between elected officials and the community they serve, raising questions about transparency and adherence to municipal codes.
As the new contract with CR&R moves forward, residents remain wary of the impact it may have on their services.
and convenient service.
Tony, Helen, and their daughters have made significant contributions to the local community and economy. "We congratulate them on their success and hope they continue their excellent work for many years to come," Dr. González remarked. "Their hard work, great customer service, and excellent reputation are a valuable asset to Colton."
Pro Nails remains a testament to the dedication and entrepreneurial spirit of a local family-operated business, celebrating 20 years of service in Colton.
Cheech Marin Champions Chicano Art as Fine Art as “The Cheech” Celebrates 2nd Anniversary, Plans for Lowrider Museum
By Manny Sandoval
On the second anniversary of the Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture, celebrated in June 2024, actor and comedian Cheech Marin unveiled the latest iteration of his renowned collection, "Shifting Perspectives." The exhibition highlights new additions alongside works from Marin's initial gift of 500 pieces, offering a vibrant exploration of Chicano art.
The collaboration with the Riverside Art Museum (RAM) came about after Marin's collection tour at the museum turned out to be their biggest show ever. When approached by the city manager about creating a permanent home for his collection, Marin initially misunderstood. "I thought they were asking me to purchase the museum. I said, 'I'm not that rich!' But then I realized it was an opportunity to create something lasting and more of a partnership," he explained.
The Cheech Marin Center, affectionately known as "The Cheech," stands as a testament to Marin's lifelong passion for Chicano art. The journey to establishing the museum began in 2017, sparked by a serendipitous discovery. "I was collecting art and conflicted about what to do next [in regard to partnering with RAM]. Then, while walking across the street at the Riverside Library, I asked staff how big the museum would be? They said 66,420 square feet, and that was the sign for me," Marin recounted with a laugh.
He was specifically referring to the 420 in the square footage.
Originally from Los Angeles, Marin is a third-generation Angeleno with deep roots in the community. His vision for The Cheech has always been about more than just showcasing art. "We want to touch every aspect of Chicano art through the years," he said. "It's about understanding the journey, from living in tin shacks to contributing to the academic art world."
"Shifting Perspectives" is the third show curated under the leadership of Artistic Director Esther Fernandez. The exhibition features 550 pieces of Chicano art, carefully selected to offer new insights into the collection. "It's another way to see the collection, exploring different subjects and categories," Marin said. The exhibition includes a unique "fire room" with paintings depicting fire, highlighting the thematic diversity of Chicano artists.
The Cheech boasts two floors of constantly changing exhibits. The bottom floor houses the core collection, while the upstairs is dedicated to traveling shows. Currently, it is preparing to host "Yolanda López: Portrait of the Artist," from August 31, 2024, to January 26, 2025. The museum also plans to expand its reach to Midwest artists, reflecting the significant Chicano culture in that region and bringing them to the Inland Empire.
Marin's efforts have been supported by various sponsors, including Altura Credit Union and Bank of America. "From the beginning, I learned how to sell this show. Hewlett Packard financed the production of the very first show, and Target stores supported us for seven years, elevating our respectability," Marin shared.
Chicano art, as defined by Marin, is made by and about Chicanos. "It explains how the process happens, what happens when people cross the border, and what they contribute," he said. Despite initial resistance from the academic community, Marin persevered, with San Antonio Art Museum being one of the first to showcase Chicano art. "They said Chicanos don't make fine art, but we proved them wrong."
Looking ahead, Marin envisions starting the first lowrider museum in Riverside, consolidating the city's position as a burgeoning art hub. "Riverside is set up to be the next big art town. Our ‘little museum that could’ has been voted one of the top 50 shows in the world," he said proudly.
Marin's advice to aspiring artists is both practical and heartfelt. "If creative arts are your passion, you can't do anything else. It's a tough way to make a living, but some make it. Find out if it's your passion and know it's going to be a long, slow road."
The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture is located at 3581 Mission Inn Ave., Riverside, CA, 92501. "Together, we hope to bring every aspect of Chicano art to this region as well as the rest of the world. We have something wonderful to give," Marin concluded.
For more information about the museum and its exhibits, visit the official website of The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture.
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Burn Victim “John Doe” Found in San Bernardino Homicide Case
By Manny Sandoval
In a harrowing incident that has shaken the community, the San Bernardino Police Department is investigating a gruesome homicide after a burn victim was discovered late Monday night.
The horrifying scene unfolded on July 22, 2024, at approximately 10:38 PM, at the intersection of N. Duffy St. and W. Donald St. Firefighters from the San Bernardino County Fire Department responded to an emergency call and found the victim, now identified as John Doe, suffering from extensive burn injuries.
Tragically, despite immediate medical attention, the victim succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
The San Bernardino Police Department’s Homicide Unit has taken over the investigation, seeking to uncover the circumstances that led to this brutal crime.
Authorities are appealing to the public for any information that could aid in solving this case and bringing those responsible to justice.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Homicide Detective B. Keith at (909) 384-5638 or Homicide Sergeant J. Plummer at (909) 384-5613.
Community members are encouraged to come forward with any details, no matter how small, to help solve this case and provide closure to the victim’s loved ones.
By Michelle Singleton, Menifee resident
LLocal Pulmonologist Shares Tips to Escape Heat and Poor Air Quality Conditions
By Dr Roger Seheult, Pulmonologist, Redlands Community Hospital
Our recent heat wave and its recordbreaking high temperatures have contributed to the number of wildfires in the state. Wildfire smoke and its small toxic particles create poor air that can enter our bodies and harm our health, sometimes even leaving permanent long-term damage to the heart and lungs.
Inhaling the poor air can cause headache, dizziness and discomfort for even the healthiest of us, but certain populations like seniors, pregnant women, children and those with chronic health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and asthma are even at greater risk.
What should we do? There are ways to improve the air we breathe. The most important thing to
do is to monitor air quality conditions. Keep an eye on conditions either by following online or getting a weather app on your phone. When air quality conditions become hazardous the best way to protect ourselves is by staying inside.
Breathe the best air you can. When you’re inside, make sure your inside air quality isn’t compromised by grilling, burning candles or smoking. Air purifiers are also a simple way but effective way to keep the best possible air quality within our homes.
If you must go outdoors use these tips. It’s a good idea to limit your outdoor exposure during poor air quality alerts. Stay indoors as much as possible, but if you must go outside:
Limit or reduce physical activity
Wear appropriate masks and respirators as necessary
Monitor yourself for symptoms such as shortness of breath or difficulty breathing and seek medical attention if you don’t feel well Stay indoors in air conditioning
A heat wave combined with poor air quality also leads to a higher risk of heat related illness. Staying cool and hydrated is just as important as monitoring air quality. If you do not have air conditioning at home find some place to cool off. These could include the Redlands YMCA or local malls. The Redlands Community Cooling Centers website also has listings for additional cool spots.
As a pulmonologist, I see the impact of poor air quality every day. It’s important to check on family, friends and neighbors during the hot summer and fire danger season.
Firefighter Suffers Minor Injury in 56-acre Vegetation Fire
Community News
The Redlands Fire Department responded to a vegetation fire in the wash area north of 1795 Sessums Drive Friday afternoon, July 19. One firefighter sustained a minor injury.
Fire crews arrived at approximately 3:30 p.m. and began an aggressive fire attack while placing hose lines
on the fire’s edges. The fire was controlled to approximately 56 acres.
There was no damage to any structures or property.
One Redlands firefighter was treated at the hospital for a minor leg injury and later released.
Due to extensive overhaul operations, fire crews from Redlands, the Bureau of
Maternal Health Care & Well-Being
ast month marked the two-year anniversary of the Supreme Court’s majority opinion in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization (2022), and I am reflecting on the rights and privileges I’ve had throughout my maternal journey. I feel tremendous joy in being a mother, but I also fear the rapid deterioration of my bodily autonomy. Moreover, I cannot find solace in my representative, Rep. Ken Calvert, given his long voting history in opposition to individual choice and liberty.
I had the privilege of being able to choose when I wanted to become a mother since I lived in a time when our Constitution protected the individual right to privacy and bodily autonomy. This constitutional right allowed me to excel in college and enter a professional career before my twenty-third birthday. I was able to dedicate my time and attention fully to my career and thrive, ultimately purchasing a brand-new home in Southern California before I turned thirty. I was able to make the decision to become a mother when I was financially ready.
Once I decided to become a mother, I had access to prenatal and postpartum care. Regular prenatal care doctor visits, preventive care, and infection screenings during my pregnancy, parenting classes, labor and delivery, postpartum care, and well-baby checkups were
all accessible at no cost because of the provisions in the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Due to the ACA’s coverage of breastfeeding services and supplies, including a double-electric breast pump, as well as the requirement for workplaces to provide time and a place for pumping, I was able to successfully breastfeed my baby for his entire first year of life. I also was quickly diagnosed and treated for postpartum depression. The Affordable Care Act allowed me to focus on my well-being and my baby’s without financial stress.
I was able to take sufficient time off work to allow my body to heal from the physical trauma of childbirth without fear of losing my job. Additionally, my husband and I were both able to be present and active in the first several crucial weeks of our child’s life due to state and federal protections like the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). Emotionally, it was a rich time period of family bonding. Financially, it was a difficult time without comprehensive paid family leave. We were both able to return to our respective positions and pay due to FMLA.
My second pregnancy resulted in a heartbreaking miscarriage. Even though this was an intended and wanted pregnancy, I needed access to abortion-related services to ensure my future well-being. With the United States having more maternal deaths than any other high-income country, it was critical that I had access to the healthcare I desperately needed. I am privileged to live in a state like California where there was and continues
Land Management and Cal Fire remained on scene for several days.
The Redlands Fire Department provided five engines, and one Battalion Chief. Mutual aid was provided by San Bernardino County Fire, Loma Linda Fire, San Manuel Fire, Cal Fire, the U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and Colton Fire.
to be access to inclusive reproductive healthcare. Many pregnant people in the United States no longer have this privilege of access following the 2022 Dobbs decision. Working families, and mothers in particular, in my district do not have a champion in Congress fighting for their family’s financial well-being. Rep. Ken Calvert has repeatedly voted against the best interests of families like mine.
He voted against the Paycheck Fairness Act, which protects against gender discrimination in pay. He also voted against the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, which provided economic relief for families. Additionally, Rep. Calvert opposed the Equality Act, which prohibits discrimination in education, employment, and housing based on sex. Furthermore, he voted against the Child Care Is Essential Act, which would have provided child care providers with the resources they needed during the pandemic to more effectively serve the families of essential workers. Rep. Calvert also voted against the PUMP for Nursing Mothers Act, which expanded workplace protections for nursing mothers.
Lastly, he voted against the Ensuring Access to Abortion Act of 2022, which would prohibit anyone from interfering in an individual’s ability to access reproductive healthcare services.
My family cannot afford Rep. Ken Calvert and his voting record.
As Temperatures Rise, Crafton Hills College Launches Solar Farm to Enhance Energy Reliability
Community News
Crafton Hills College has completed a new 2.3-megawatt solar farm equipped with battery storage, a significant step towards sustainability. This initiative, supported by the San Bernardino Community College District’s Measure CC, aims to enhance energy efficiency and reduce the college’s environmental impact.
Why it matters: As temperatures rise, the solar farm is designed to improve energy efficiency and reliability. The project is expected to make Crafton Hills College a net zero energy campus by producing 100% of its energy needs.
By the numbers: The solar farm, featuring fixed tilt ground-mounted panels and a Tesla Megapack battery storage system, captures excess solar energy during the day and stores it for use during peak demand times.
This reduces strain on the power grid and helps prevent blackouts during heat waves.
The system is projected to save the college $550,000 in the first year and $10.5 million over 25 years.
By generating clean energy, the solar farm will significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions. The reduction is equivalent to avoiding the consumption of
327,101 gallons of gasoline annually, contributing to a cooler planet.
What they’re saying: “This solar farm is a testament to our commitment to maximizing our resources and environmental responsibility,” said Diana Z. Rodriguez, Chancellor of the San Bernardino Community College District. “The savings will allow us to reallocate funds to the classroom, directly benefiting our local students.”
Measure CC At Work: The project was made possible by Measure CC, a $470 million bond initiative approved by local voters in 2018 to modernize and enhance facilities at Crafton Hills College and San Bernardino Valley College. The
Board of Trustees approved the solar farm’s construction in October 2021, reflecting SBCCD’s commitment to a sustainable future.
What’s next: SBCCD plans to continue integrating sustainable practices across the district, further reducing its carbon footprint and promoting clean energy use.
The solar project, developed and built by TotalEnergies, positions Crafton Hills College as a leader in sustainable energy use, setting a positive example for other institutions and contributing to a more stable and eco-friendly energy grid.
PHOTO CHC
New 2.3-megawatt solar farm at Crafton Hills College in Yucaipa, California, funded by Measure CC, approved by local voters.
PHOTO CHC
The solar farm at Crafton Hills College captures excess solar energy with ground-mounded panels
Alejandro Gutierrez Chavez Joins Leadership of CA for the Arts and CA Arts Advocates Board
Community News
The San Bernardino County Arts community celebrates as Alejandro Gutierrez Chavez, Executive Director of Arts Connection, is appointed to the Board of Directors for CA for the Arts (CFTA) and CA Arts Advocates (CAA). This prestigious appointment recognizes Alejandro’s outstanding leadership and commitment to advancing the arts across California.
Alejandro Gutierrez Chavez, a dynamic leader in the San Bernardino County Arts community, brings a wealth of experience and a passion for equity and inclusion in the arts. Under his guidance, Arts Connection has flourished, providing vital support to local artists and promoting the arts as an essential component of community wellbeing.
Alejandro’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for the arts in California, as CFTA continues to champion policies and programs that ensure the arts are accessible to all. His role on the
board will enable him to bring resources and opportunities from the state level to the local communities of San Bernardino County, further strengthening the region’s cultural infrastructure.
“I am honored to join the Board of Directors for California for the Arts and California Arts Advocates.” said Alejandro Gutierrez Chavez. “This opportunity allows me to advocate for the arts on a broader scale and to bring valuable insights and resources back to our local communities across San Bernardino County and the Inland Empire. I look forward to working with my fellow board members to create a more vibrant and inclusive arts landscape for all Californians.”
Arts Connection has been an instrumental supporter of art communities across the county, including the city of San Bernardino, where their main office is located at the Garcia Center for the Arts. They currently offer a variety of programs that support the local arts ecosystem, such as the Arts Avenue program, which utilizes community
teaching artists to provide highquality arts classes in the San Bernardino City Unified School District, and Estudio AIRE program, which offers emerging artists studio space, professional development, and community engagement opportunities. Other initiatives include the Morongo Basin Big Read, Creative Corps Inland SoCal, Arts Crawl, Poetry Out Loud, and many more.
“Having Alejandro join the CA for the Arts and CA Arts Advocates board is a tremendous milestone for our community,” said Michael Segura, Board President of the Garcia Center for the Arts. “His leadership at Arts Connection has been transformative, and I am confident he will bring the same passion and vision to his new role, while also bringing invaluable resources and tools back to our local communities.”
Alejandro’s appointment to the CFTA and CAA board is a significant milestone for Arts Connection and the broader arts community in San Bernardino County. It underscores the organization’s
The Humane Society of San Bernardino Valley will be hosting its annual Casino Night and Dog House Auction “Howler-ween” Party presented by Caston Inc. on Saturday, October 12, 2024 from 5 PM – 9:30 PM at 374 W. Orange Show Road, San Bernardino.
Attendees can gamble the night away and have the opportunity to win several fabulous high-end raffle prize packages including an Eastern Sierra vacation package, Six Flags tickets, a suite at the Ontario Reign, Knott’s Berry Farm tickets and so much more.
Guests will also enjoy gaming, music, dancing, food and fun. One of a kind birdhouses, a dog house and deluxe pet beds will be available for live auction. Costumes are encouraged, but not required.
There will be a contest for “Best Costume”, with the
winner being announced at the end of the event. New additions to the event this year include a henna tattoo artist.
The HSSBV is thrilled to announce a live musical performance by Michael Landingham on the outdoor patio from 5 PM – 6:30 PM. Michael Landingham is a singer/songwriter from Orange County CA, with over 15 years of experience performing as a solo artist and in bands playing hundreds of gigs a year.
With his passionate soulful vocals and upbeat fun energy he loves to give people a show they won’t forget, playing a wide range of genres and songs people know and love to his own heartfelt originals. In 2021 he was also a contestant on NBC’s The Voice for season 23 and has just released his new pop country breakout single “Summer Weather.”
Tickets are available now and can be purchased online at https://hssbv.org/Howler-Ween-Party, by calling 909386-1400 ext 218 or 224 or in person at the HSSBV Ad-
ministration Office (374 W Orange Show Road). Ticket prices are $50 each when purchased on or before October 1st. Tickets sold after October 1st will be sold for $55 each. Tickets will also be available for sale at the door for this price. It is strongly encouraged to purchase your tickets in advance.
Each ticket includes dinner, drink ticket, raffle ticket, $100 in Casino Cash, and entrance to the door prize drawings. This event is for guests 21 years of age and older only. We love our pets and always want to spend more time with them; however, pets will need to stay home for this event.
Sponsors for the HSSBV Howler-ween Casino Night and Dog House Auction presented by Caston Inc. include Caston, Inc., Idexx Laboratories, Cormarc Insurance Services and Los Carnales. All proceeds from this event benefit the HSSBV programs and services.
PHOTO ARTS CONNECTION
Alejandro Gutierrez Chavez is the executive director of Arts Connecton.
HSSBV Annual Casino Night & Dog House Auction
Community News
PHOTO HSSBV
A San Bernardino family playing blackjack at last year’s event, raising money for animals in the region.
San Bernardino County to Benefit from $500 Million Federal Grant for Clean Transportation
By Manny Sandoval
The South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) has been awarded nearly $500 million in federal grants for clean transportation programs, marking the largest grant allocation under the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants (CPRG) program across all 50 states.
This initiative, part of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), aims to combat climate pollution through substantial investments in cleaner transportation.
The SCAQMD oversees air quality standards across Los Angeles, Orange, and parts of Riverside and San Bernardino Counties. This grant is set to make a significant impact, especially in San Bernardino County, a region heavily affected by vehicle and industrial emissions.
According to the SCAQMD’s Climate Action Plan, the funds will be directed
toward several key initiatives:
Installing over 1,000 medium and heavy-duty vehicle chargers and deploying 800 electric vehicles along with 18 electric locomotives.
Reducing air pollutants from diesel emissions in low-income and disadvantaged communities.
Creating an estimated 470 high-quality jobs in California, with a focus on building an apprenticeship pipeline leading to union careers.
Educating communities about electric vehicles to expedite their adoption.
Enhancing resilience in the freight sector by modernizing vehicles and developing a skilled workforce prepared for future challenges.
The Biden Administration emphasized the importance of this funding in a press
release, stating, “As climate change continues to fuel more extreme impacts on communities across the country, we are using every tool in our toolbox to reduce pollution, lower families’ energy costs, advance environmental justice, and make our communities more resilient.”
The grant comes at a crucial time as Southern California experiences a severe heatwave, exacerbating air quality issues. The American Lung Association’s State of the Air report identifies the SCAQMD region as the most polluted in the nation, primarily due to vehicle emissions. Additionally, the region faces pollution challenges from cargo boats, large trucks, and heavy rail traffic from the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach to warehouses in Riverside and San Bernardino counties.
Yassi Kavezade, Senior Campaign Advisor for Sierra Club Clean Transporta-
tion for All, remarked, “This historic $500 million investment in zero-emission freight infrastructure is a lifeline for Southern California. With Los Angeles and the Inland Empire suffering from the nation's most polluted air, this funding is crucial for protecting the health of the 17 million residents in the South Coast Air Basin. We're committed to ensuring these dollars translate into cleaner air, green jobs, and environmental justice for our most impacted communities.”
This initial round of funding represents 92% of the CPRG’s total allocation, underscoring the significant role Southern California and the SCAQMD will play in the national strategy to reduce climate pollution.
The investment is expected to bring transformative changes, particularly in San Bernardino County, fostering a cleaner, healthier environment for its
Rep. Pete Aguilar Announces $2.3 Million for Inland Empire Affordable Pediatric Care
Community News
Today, Rep. Pete Aguilar announced that the County of San Bernardino and Inland Behavioral Services, Inc. (IBHS) are receiving $2,377,734 from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to lower the cost of pediatric health care in the Inland Empire.
The funding will go towards the completion of two school-based health cen-
ters in the Inland Empire to provide primary care services to low-income children.
“I am thrilled to announce a significant investment in the health and well-being of our region’s children,” said Rep. Pete Aguilar. “This grant will be instrumental in not only keeping our kids healthy, but also lowering the cost of health care for hard-working parents in our community. Together, we are making strides toward
a healthier future for all residents of the Inland Empire.”
“San Bernardino County appreciates Congressman Aguilar’s advocacy for local public health and preschool funding,” said Board of Supervisors Chairman and Third District Supervisor Dawn Rowe.
“Funding from this grant award supports the San Bernardino County Department of Public Health’s Federally
Qualified Health Centers and its partnership with the County’s Preschool Services Department, establishing two school-based health centers at the Apple Valley and Ontario Maple preschool locations, providing comprehensive pediatric primary care services. Additional funding allows expansion of preventive dental services to both sites,” said San Bernardino County Public Health Director Josh Dugas.
